Fourth and fifth grade students at Erie Elementary file into the music room with anticipation, eagerly pulling their instruments from their cases as they prepare for their final performance of the year. The sounds of trumpets, trombones, clarinets, flutes, and even a saxophone quickly fill the room as students warm-up. While a handful of students are returning for their second year in band, for many, this marks the very first time they have ever picked up an instrument.
Since starting the program in 2013, band director and music teacher Anna Schultz has watched the program continuously grow each year. She believes introducing students to music at a young age gives them an opportunity to discover new interests while building confidence and connection with their peers. “At this age, there are a lot of opportunities for clubs and physical activities, but not as many for music,” Schultz shared. “Starting at a younger age provides them with a community to be a part of, and a chance to find an instrument that they enjoy playing.”
At Erie Elementary, band has become more than just learning notes and rhythms. It has created a space where they can challenge themselves, collaborate with classmates, and build friendships as they prepare for performances throughout the year. Each student brings their own interests and inspirations to the program, creating a band community filled with different personalities and musical goals.
For Aaron Farnsworth, a fourth grade saxophone player, music has always been part of his life. Growing up surrounded by family members who play instruments, such as the flute and clarinet, inspired his interest in music. However it was seeing a character play the saxophone in the Super Mario Brothers video game that convinced him to give the instrument a try. “If another student asked me about band, I would tell them they should do it and it’s really cool,” he shared.
Fifth grade clarinet player Nora Mauck also found band to be a meaningful way to connect with others while further exploring her love of music. With previous experience playing the ukulele, she decided to join band and quickly discovered how much she enjoyed being part of the group. “Band is really fun, and you get to know a lot of people before middle school,” Nora shared. “My brother was in band and that’s where he met his best friend, and they’re still friends.”
As the school year comes to a close, the excitement filling the music room reflects more than just preparation for a performance. For Erie Elementary students, band has become a place to discover new talents, gain confidence, and create lasting friendships through music.